USG Scan - Both Limbs Arterial Doppler Test

Doppler ultrasound scan is done on both the arms and legs even if the abnormality is suspected in one limb. The scanning is done so that the vascular system can be compared between the two limbs. The ultrasound scan for an arterial Doppler procedure uses sound waves to create a color map of the arteries in the legs to identify skin discoloration, heel, ankle, toe or foot ulcers, resting leg pain or narrowing of the vessels that may cause leg pain when walking. For scanning, the blood pressure readings are taken at different locations by wrapping a blood pressure cuff around the calf and then around the thigh. A Doppler ultrasound is a pain-free and risk-free procedure. The test provides valuable information regarding the blood flow through major arteries and veins.

Some special preparation which is required before Doppler ultrasound scanning are:

• Avoid the consumption of nicotine products like tobacco and cigarette for at least 2-4 hours before the procedure. Nicotine consumption may cause the blood vessels to constrict and may be mistaken for a pathological constriction.
• You should also remove all the metal and jewelry accessories as they may alter the scanning results.
• You are also asked to change your clothes and wear a hospital gown, according to the area of the body to be scanned.

Doppler ultrasound scan is the first step to look after the arteries and veins. It is often ordered if you show signs of decreased blood flow in the arteries or veins. It is also useful if you show other symptoms of deep vein thrombosis, superficial thrombophlebitis, arteriosclerosis, thromboangiitis obliterans, or vascular tumors in your arms or legs. A Doppler ultrasound also helps in determining the blood pressure within the arteries and also show how much blood is currently flowing through the veins and arteries.

A sonographer or a radiologist performs the following procedure:

• You will be instructed to lie down on an examination table in a still position.
• A water-soluble gel is applied to the skin which directs high-frequency sound waves into the arteries being studied.
• A radiologist or a sonographer may place blood pressure cuffs around the thigh, ankle, and calf. This will help in comparison of blood pressure in different parts of the legs.
• Images are created as the transducer is pressed against the skin and sends sound waves to the blood vessels. The blood vessels send back the echo and the information is sent to the computer and is processed and recorded.
• Graphs and pictures will be produced which will show the blood flow through arteries and veins.